Nehemiah 13:15 – Job 7:21
Queen Esther
Overview
The book of Esther and beginning of Job are included in the reading for day 36 of 90 days through the Bible. The story of Esther takes place during the exile. Mordecai and his cousin Esther and many Israelites were carried off to Babylon by the armies of king Nebuchadnezzar. During the exile Babylon was dominated and became part of the Persian empire. At that time, King Xerxes and his Queen, Vashti, ruled the land. ` After some disputes between the king and queen, the king put away Queen Vashti and began to search for a new queen. Through a process, Esther was selected Queen. The king did not know her nationality. Haman, an official of the king did not like Mordecai and hated the Israelites. His goal was to have all of them killed. He convinced the king to write a decree to have all of the Israelites killed. Mordecai tells Esther this plan and she approaches the king and convinces him to change the rule. Ultimately, Haman was executed for plotting to kill the queen and her people and the Israelites were allowed to avenge their enemies and also guaranteed protection from the King or Persia. Mordecai was placed second in command next to the king himself.
Scripture – Esther 4:14
14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Observation
The king is convinced by Haman to to exterminate all of the Israelites and Mordecai learns of this and sends word to Esther to have the king repeal the death order. Anyone who approaches the king without being asked could be killed. Esther must decide to either approach the king and plead for the law to be changed or remain silent. Either action would most likely cause her to be executed but confronting the king could save the Israelites. Mordecai makes it clear to Esther that she may have been placed as queen for this specific purpose.
Application
God places circumstances in our lives for a reason. Often, these circumstances are challenges or hurdles. They may occur to draw us closer to God, teach us a lesson in life, bless us or simply to bring Glory to Him, we don’t always know. We need to trust God when the big things in life come our way whether they are good or bad. Many times these we can be used by God to reach others. Just like Esther was used to save a nation, we can be used to save lives by pointing people towards God. When we encounter challenges, we should seek God and lean on Him for our answers. They may test our faith but our Lord will be there for us. Our response to these challenges may be a witness to others. Don’t run from these challenges, meet them head on with God at your side.
Prayer
Thank you Lord that we can be used to bring Glory to your name. Give me strength and discernment when I am faced with challenges in my life. Allow me to be a testimony to others for your namesake.
